Summer 2010

Children and toddler PFD's available on loan through Family Resource Center

Family Resource Center of Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital reminds area residents of the Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Loaner Program. The program provides PFDs for children free of charge.

“Checking out a PFD is as easy as getting a book from the library,” explains Tonya Millard, Director at Family Resource Center. “Sizes of PFDs available are for children who are 0-30 pounds, 30-50 pounds, and 50-90 pounds. To check out a PFD, contact Family Resource Center at 800 East Taylor Street in Prairie du Chien. The center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and other times by appointment.”

The PFDs can be checked out for several days or for the season, but as there is a limited supply of PFDs, users are asked to return them when they are no longer needed.

The project was established through the suggestion of retired Conservation Warden Dennis Kirschbaum. The Department of Natural Resources has a public awareness program called “For Love of a Tot” (FLOAT).  FLOAT brought to the boater’s attention that PFDs should be worn by youngsters when they are in a boat or even near the water. Kirschbaum expanded upon FLOAT and approached the Rod and Gun Club with the loaner idea. He explained the need for the program as many people need a PFD for children. Wisconsin Law requires that each person on board a boat must have a wearable PFD available to them that is in good condition and of the proper size.

Many parents are reluctant to purchase a toddler size PFD when they know the youngster will outgrow it in a short time. They simply buy a PFD that fits an older child thinking it will fit the toddler as well.

According to the law, a child size PFD is not the legal size for a toddler.  The boater’s intention may be good, but they need to realize that a toddler can slide out of a child’s PFD because it is simply too big. The loaner program is designed to fill that gap and allow for the short term use of the toddler size PFD.

Family Resource Center has had a high demand for PFDs, sometimes all are checked out. Anyone interested in donating a new PFD, or a used one in good condition, which would fit a toddler or child may contact Family Resource Center at 608-357-2135.